Ann-Marie Powell

Ann-Marie Powell has cultivated a life steeped in nature and creativity, her journey marked by the transformative power of gardening. Raised in a household where gardening wasn’t a prominent theme, her early exposure to plants came primarily from her grandfather, a quiet man whose gentle touch nurtured a small allotment to feed his family. It wasn’t until Ann-Marie stumbled upon the art of gardening in her twenties that a profound passion sprouted, ignited by the thrill of witnessing her first seeds bloom—inexplicably, almost magically, blossoming into vibrant life.

Since starting her design practice in 1998, Ann-Marie has established herself as a beacon in the field of garden design, earning accolades that underscore her innovative spirit and expertise. Her gardens, characterized by a mix of contemporary style and naturalistic elements, reflect the very landscapes she cherishes in South Downs. Yet, beyond the accolades, it seems there’s a persistent internal tug-of-war; the balance between her artistic ambitions and the everyday toil of managing a garden.

She’s a familiar figure on UK television, sharing her knowledge and infectious love for horticulture with audiences. From BBC’s coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show to ITV’s This Morning, her engaging presence feels like a comforting blend of informality and authority. But amidst the flurry of these appearances and her authorship of five well-received books, one wonders how she continuously nurtures her own garden—in a literal sense—while engaging with a dizzying array of obligations.

Despite this whirlwind, gardening remains Ann-Marie’s sanctuary and source of joy. “It’s the last flower that opened” that brings her the most fulfillment, she shares, acknowledging her addictive nature toward nurturing plants. Yet, there’s an underlying humor to her struggle; a commitment to never buy another plant again. Perhaps it’s the bittersweet truth of being deeply enmeshed in a world she cherishes while navigating its relentless demands, leaving one to wonder what’s next for this gardening virtuoso as she digs in deeper into her life’s work.